You Must Be Some Kind of Therapist

In this episode, I delve into the raw and revealing journey of Austin Unbridled, a 41-year-old who has navigated the turbulent waters of gender identity and spirituality. Austin's candid recount of transitioning from male to female, and then detransitioning twice, sheds light on the complexities of trans ideology and the often unspoken struggles that accompany it. We explore the allure of transformation, the promises of gender-affirming care, and the harsh realities that followed.

Austin's story is one of vulnerability, from the influence of older trans individuals and the seductive narratives of the trans community, to the entanglement with sex work and the pursuit of surgeries in hopes of finding peace. His return to a Christian faith offers a contrasting perspective to his past experiences.

What drove Austin to believe that changing his gender would solve his inner turmoil? How did his spiritual upbringing clash with his gender exploration? And what led to his profound realization that the path he was on wasn't leading to the fulfillment he sought? Join us as we unpack these questions and more, offering a glimpse into the life of someone who's lived on the front lines of a deeply personal and societal debate. Tune in to hear Austin's transformative tale and the lessons he's learned about identity, faith, and the human desire for authenticity.

Austin, 41, is a former male-to-female identified individual and a two-time detransitioner who has grappled with spiritual and gender identity throughout his life. Nestled in an off-grid DIY compound in Arizona's desert, Austin passionately seeks truth, enjoys journaling, and finds solace in nature and with good friends and a loyal canine companion. Documenting his detransition journey and return to faith on TikTok, Austin intertwines personal growth, reflecting on his experience between transitions with a dedication to sharing the Love and teachings of Jesus Christ. Eager to enroll in ministry school next year, and driven by a deep belief that no child is “born in the wrong body,” Austin's prodigal journey home encompasses faith, self-discovery, and at times a cautionary tale.

Follow Austin on TikTok @austin.unbridled and on YouTube @austinunbridled

Books mentioned in this episode:

Previous episodes mentioned:

[00:00:00] Trans ideology and its impact.

[00:01:31] TikTok and transgender identity.

[00:05:51] Gender identity and religion.

[00:10:36] Faith and reasoning.

[00:19:00] Romanticizing LGBTQ+ experiences.

[00:19:02] A departure from Christian roots.

[00:23:22] Transgender identity and stereotypes.

[00:28:17] Foreshadowing psychiatric care approach.

[00:32:11] Adjusting to the hormones.

[00:33:27] Hormones and emotional sensitivity.

[00:39:13] Getting off all the meds.

[00:41:21] Nihilism and body modifications.

[00:44:54] Preying on vulnerability.

[00:49:26] Sex work and financial struggles.

[00:52:10] Transitioning and its consequences.

[00:56:01] Complications in bottom surgery.

[01:00:57] Dating challenges post-surgery.

[01:07:51] Suicides and body modification.

[01:10:05] Finding closure and questioning trans ideology.

[01:13:38] Identity and ideological differences.

[01:19:53] Guilt tripping tactics.

[01:19:55] Detransition and its consequences.

[01:27:17] Going back on testosterone.

[01:28:29] Hormonal effects on transitioning.

[01:34:13] Faith and self-discovery.

[01:38:34] Quiet detransitioning and lost connections.

[01:41:09] Regrets about transitioning.

[01:47:48] Breast implant removal fundraising.

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Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.

Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.

Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.

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